Analysis
Alabama's finance program puts graduates on a strong upward trajectory that distinguishes it from typical state options. Starting at $55,580βalready above both the state median of $50,939 and national median of $53,590βearnings jump to $72,138 by year four. That 30% growth rate signals that Alabama graduates are landing roles with genuine advancement potential, not dead-end positions. Among Alabama's 16 finance programs, this ranks at the 60th percentile, trailing only UAH and Auburn among major state schools.
The $25,000 in typical debt sits comfortably below the 1:1 threshold that creates financial strain, giving new graduates breathing room even in their lower-earning early years. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45, most graduates should manage repayment without difficulty while still building savings. The robust sample size means these figures reflect real outcomes, not statistical noise.
For families weighing Alabama against Auburn or UAH, the differences are marginalβall three deliver similar value. But compared to smaller state programs where graduates start in the low $40,000s, Alabama's combination of solid starting salaries and strong growth makes it a clear winner for students serious about finance careers.
Where The University of Alabama Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How The University of Alabama graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Alabama | $55,580 | $72,138 | +30% |
| Auburn University | $55,875 | $71,821 | +29% |
| Samford University | $53,059 | $70,946 | +34% |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | $50,939 | $62,664 | +23% |
| University of South Alabama | $41,657 | $54,038 | +30% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,900 | $55,580 | $72,138 | $25,000 | 0.45 | |
| $11,770 | $56,584 | β | β | β | |
| $12,536 | $55,875 | $71,821 | $20,500 | 0.37 | |
| $38,144 | $53,059 | $70,946 | $19,000 | 0.36 | |
| $8,832 | $50,939 | $62,664 | $22,500 | 0.44 | |
| $11,990 | $43,512 | $50,370 | $22,250 | 0.51 | |
| National Median | β | $53,590 | β | $23,332 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At The University of Alabama, approximately 18% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 319 graduates with reported earnings and 328 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.